The Emerging Player Programme (EPP) is being rolled out at five centres by Dragons RFC from October as part of the wider player pathway reform in Welsh rugby.
The newly introduced EPP is being introduced throughout Wales in each region; Dragons, Cardiff Rugby, Ospreys and Scarlets – in collaboration with the WRU - and delivered locally across 24 schools districts in Wales.
Dragons RFC will launch five EPPs - Rhymney Valley, Islwyn, Blaenau Gwent, Pontypool and Newport – from Monday, October 9 at five schools across our region.
- Rhymney Valley EPP (Bedwas Comprehensive School) - Mondays – 4pm to 5pm
- Islwyn EPP (Blackwood Comprehensive School) - Mondays - 5pm to 6pm
- Blaenau Gwent EPP (Brynmawr Comprehensive School) - Mondays - 4pm to 5pm
- Pontypool EPP (West Monmouth Comprehensive) - Mondays - 5:30om to 6:30pm
- Newport EPP (Newport High School) - Mondays - 4:30pm to 5:30pm
Sitting as part of the new Talent Discovery phase of the player pathway, the principle of the EPP programme is to enhance individual player development at Under-15 age group in a locally based group setting.
As part of the new changes, the Dewar Shield will also be integrated into the regional pathway, meaning it will now be contested at U16 (Year 11) level.
The revamp will result in a 22-month programme of development for emerging players between 14 and 16 years old (U15 and U16).
Lewis Roberts, Interim Academy Manager at Dragons RFC, said: “We’re looking forward to launching the five new EPP centres in our region from October.
“These changes will allow players a longer period of time to explore their potential in high quality environments with a strong regional connection.
“We are fully aware of the importance of the EPP and look forward to continuing our close working relationship with WRU Community staff within the region to ensure that we engage as many players as possible, across all five centres.
“We are now encouraging interested players to register and join this new phase of the player pathway in the Dragons region.”
Players interested in the new EPP in the Dragons region can register HERE
We are fully aware of the importance of the EPP and look forward to continuing our close working relationship with WRU Community staff within the region to ensure that we engage as many players as possible, across all five centres...
